The shocking revelation that parents of a 12-year-old child never knew she was pregnant is bound to draw significant attention and concern.
Inspector Unaisi Mateiwai of the Fiji Police Force Sexual Offences and Child Abuse unit spoke candidly at a recent Christian rally about the concerning experiences members of the unit have encountered.
IP Mateiwai highlighted the case of the young girl to illustrate the lack of parental monitoring. She expressed disappointment over such incidents, questioning how parents could remain unaware for nine months that their child was expecting a baby. “Who else should know? For nine months this child was carrying the baby. A lot of mothers tend to get angry at me because I cause arguments with them at the Maternity Unit. I tell them: ‘No, you are lying. You are supposed to know. Every month you buy her things!’”
This case emphasizes the critical role parents and guardians have in their children’s lives, prompting reflection on the responsibilities of nurturing and protecting children. It sheds light on the areas where improvement is needed and what actions must be taken to address these shortcomings.
A woman can become pregnant and have a baby as soon as she begins ovulating or producing eggs. According to the World Health Organization, as of 2019, adolescents aged 15–19 years in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) had an estimated 21 million pregnancies each year, about half of which were unintended, resulting in approximately 12 million births. Additionally, 55% of unintended pregnancies among adolescent girls aged 15–19 years end in abortions, which are often unsafe in LMICs. Adolescent mothers face higher health risks, including eclampsia, puerperal endometritis, and systemic infections, while their babies are at higher risk of low birth weight, preterm birth, and severe neonatal conditions.
Given these statistics, it becomes crucial for parents and guardians to be actively engaged in their children’s lives. They must find time to be involved both at home and in society. This involvement is essential for nurturing and guiding children through to adulthood, emphasizing the value of the parental role in their development.
It is imperative that parents reassess their priorities, recognize the importance of their involvement, and maintain vigilance in safeguarding their children’s welfare. This includes moving away from over-reliance on technology, such as mobile phones, as substitutes for parental engagement.
We have an opportunity to rethink our current practices and contribute positively to our children’s development. IP Mateiwai raises many important points. The question remains: do we have the will to be catalysts for change?